Val Chmerkovskiy, a veteran professional dancer on "Dancing With The Stars," has publicly criticized AJ Pritchard, a contestant on the show's companion series "DWTS: The Next Pro." Chmerkovskiy cited Pritchard's "arrogance" as a significant issue throughout the recent episode, particularly in interactions with his partner, Serena Hamilton.
On the "Stepping On Toes" podcast, Chmerkovskiy described Pritchard's demeanor as a "huge turn-off" and suggested it made for "good TV at his expense." He advised Pritchard to "wrap that arrogance into a little softer presentation."
During the second episode of "Next Pro," Pritchard and Hamilton performed a jive routine. Chmerkovskiy noted that while many contestants have accolades, humility is crucial in current competitions. He acknowledged Pritchard's accomplishments as a competitive dancer and his previous role as a professional on the BBC's "Strictly Come Dancing" from 2016 to 2019. However, Chmerkovskiy urged Pritchard to "be present. Don't live in the past" and to focus on the current competition rather than relying on past successes.
Chmerkovskiy also pointed to a specific moment where Pritchard used his foot to adjust Hamilton's hip placement during a rehearsal. He called this action a "huge turn-off," suggesting that such behavior is unlikely to win over viewers or judges.
Chmerkovskiy has been a professional dancer on "Dancing With The Stars" for 20 seasons, making his debut in Season 13 in 2011. He has won the Mirrorball Trophy three times with celebrity partners Rumer Willis, Laurie Hernandez, and Xochitl Gomez. In the most recent Season 34, he and partner Alix Earle placed second.
The competition "DWTS: The Next Pro" offers the winner a spot to compete as a professional dancer in Season 35 of "Dancing With The Stars." The show airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.